AN area of agricultural land in Rushwick near Worcester will be made into a playing field after Malvern Hills planners gave the go-ahead.

Rushwick Parish Council applied to the district council to convert the 1.2 hectare field next to the eastern side of Upper Wick Lane in the village for recreational use.

The scheme will involve swings being installed for youngsters as well as a netball court, skateboard area and non-competitive sized football pitch.

However, the council has said the facilities provided on the site - which is opposite two homes, a nursing home and Rushwick Primary School to the south - would depend on the level of funding.

Councillors approved the scheme despite receiving a 56-signature petition from residents of nearby properties over the loss of valuable agricultural land, unacceptable noise levels, traffic problems and potential anti-social behaviomur.